SUSSEX
Sussex NOVEMBER 2023 / £3.95
PLU S CRIME OF PASSION
S PEC I AL
Author Elly Griffiths on the dark side of Brighton •
Stylish decorations and gifts galore
MAKING SOME DOUGH
NOVEMBER 2023
Jürgen Krauss on life after Great British Bake Off •
ALL THE RIGHT NOTES
Marking 25 years of The Music Room at Champs Hill
Bright
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ABSOLUTELY
Contents NOVEMBER 2023
42 37
27 14
C U LT U R E AGENDA
46 WEDDINGS
ELLY GRIFFITHS
INTERIORS 64 EMMA WOOD
The best events in November
16
Brighton's crime writing extraordinaire
27 CHRISTMAS ROUND UP Unique gifts for all the family
FOOD & DRINK 34 JURGEN KRAUSS
The GBBO favourite on Brighton life
37 DRINKS
A twist on the finest in gin
FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 40 JEWELLERY Gems to make your ears sparkle
42 THE SHOOT
Colourful knits from Boden
A Sussex photographer takes us down memory lane
The Sussex interior designer on her colourful career to date
69 TREND
Why we are seeing red
73 5 OF THE BEST...
Woodburners that look great as well as heat the home
E D U C AT I O N 78 TALKING HEAD
Windlesham's Ben Evans on opportunities for all
80 CHICHESTER FRINGE Heads to Chichester College
A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M
The online guide to inspirational living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.
O N T H E C OV E R Boden's AW23 collection (boden.co.uk)
A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Editor’s
LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights
1
Weddings Feature
Exploring the work of photographer Philip Bedford (p46)
2
Local Q&A
The Brighton picks of author Elly Griffiths (p16)
5
Jurgen Krauss What the Great British Bake Off star did next (p34)
E
ver since I first picked up a Stephen King book – IT, which was a ridiculously big one to take on at 13 – I have been fascinated by the darker side of life. My wife will be sitting next to me watching the latest candy floss reality TV, whilst I am devouring The Long Shadow on my iPad (the superb TV show that put the spotlight on The Yorkshire Ripper's victims). You can imagine my delight, then, when I realised that Brighton is a hotbed for crime novelists. We have already featured William Shaw within this pages, and this month it's Elly Griffiths, who explains why it's not so surprising Sussex inspires those with a prediliction for writing about the darker side of life. To prove I am not all doom and gloom, this month also features a mini Christmas gift special, where we suggest unique presents for the whole family, plus meet a Sussex wedding photographer to discuss some of his happiest shoots. There is also a chat with Great British Bake Off favourite, Jurgen Krauss. All you need to settle down for a cosy night in – after all, the nights are getting darker...
4
C hristmas Christmas Gifts Top picks for all the family (p31)
MARK KEBBLE EDITOR
3
PetsPyjamas
The top destinations for you and your furry friend (p20)
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N E W WAV E S
Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love
Oliver James makes the finest inflatable Lilos. These are pieces that stand the test of time and look great, with no punctures, no mould and not even any colour fade. Doubles from £1,385. oliverjameslilos.com
ELECTRIC BLUE New from Dyson is the Blue Blush range, a fabulous matte shade for the world's best hair tools. The Ultra-Blue was built on the intense hue of the lapis lazuli semi-precious stone and it's a true showstopper. dyson.co.uk
EDITOR’S PICK
TO P TUCK Designed in a nonchalant, relaxed fit in refreshing pale blue, Whistles' Nancy top features a gathering detail around the neck and a drawstring detail at the hem, making it a minimal yet playful silhouette. whistles.com
SOLE MAN Terry de Havilland's metallic leather block platform sandals are just as fresh today as they were in the 1970s. This is Zia, with a lightning flash on the heel. terrydehavilland.com
COMPILED BY
PENDLE HARTE
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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES
TRUE BLUE It's not time to give up on sunglasses yet, and we are loving the collection of frames in various shades of blue at French eyewear boutique Bloobloom. bloobloom.com
HOME OF STYLE The Conran Shop's fabulous online store is a treasure trove of everything from large pieces of furniture to small accessories. conranshop.com
T H E I TA L I A N LOOK Borbonese is a historic Italian brand of bags and accessories. Founded in Turin in 1910, the brand is universally recognized for its Eye of Partridge Suede, capable of attracting an elegant and cosmopolitan clientele. borbonese.com
LIGHT UP
SECOND SKIN
Hay's stylish candles and candle holders come in a variety of shapes and colours. Kit yourself out for autumn evenings. hay.nl
Marie Jo's Jane Italian brief comes in a beautiful Velvet Blue shade with intricate embroidery and a feminine vibe. ameliesfollies.co.uk
IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk
FILL IN Les Mondes de Diptyque is the brand's first scented candle collection offering refills with an assortment of accessories. diptyqueparis.com
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Thursday 24th—Monday 28th August · Pavilion Theatre AD WTM.indd 12
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C U LT U R E
ENSEMBLE REZA 25 NOVEMBER, HOLY TRINITY CHURCH CUCKFIELD
In the 10th anniversary year of the Sussexbased Ensemble Reza, it has been announced that Dame Judi Dench has agreed to become their Patron. Dame Judi says: “I’m a real fan of Ensemble Reza, having attended several concerts over the last year. The passion and virtuosity of the musicians is evident in every note they play.” Ensemble Reza’s 10th anniversary concert will be a special Candlelit event on Saturday 25 November. ensemblereza.com
Agenda 14 • Elly Griffiths 16 • PetsPyjamas 20 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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The Agenda THE BEST EVENTS IN SUSSEX
EV E N T
Henry Normal 7 November KO M E D I A , B R I G H T O N BAFTA award-winning writer and producer turned poet, Henry Normal, is back on the road touring the UK with a brand new show for 2023, alongside a very special guest - comedy legend Nigel Planer. As ever, and in his own distinctive style, Henry’s show will find fun in the familiar, humour in the everyday and poignancy in the pitfalls of modern life. It is a show about love, life and family. komedia.co.uk
A RT
Ukrainian art UN TI L 11 F E B RUA RY, 2024, STU D I O GA L LERY, WORTHIN G MUSEUM
Worthing Theatres and Museum are thrilled to be working with the Worthing Ukrainian Friends’ Network to present Ukrainian Renaissance: art, craft and history, a brand new exhibition celebrating the diverse creativity of Ukrainian refugees in West Sussex. The group of artists, with differing styles, mediums and backgrounds, will represent the best Ukraine has to offer. The exhibition will celebrate Ukrainian's rich and diverse cultural contribution to European culture. wtm.uk
14
MU S I C
Louis Tomlinson 14 November B R I G H TO N C E N T R E Louis Tomlinson gives another taste of his upcoming album 'Faith In The Future', with the release of ‘Out Of My System’. Arguably the most adventurous moment on the album, 'Out Of My System' is a punky, in your face song written by Louis with Nicolas Rebscher and Dave Gibson, which will undoubtedly stop you in your tracks when you first hear it. You can hear it and more of the new album when he takes to the stage at Brighton Centre... brightoncentre.co.uk
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T H E AT R E
Life of Pi 16 November-2 December CHICHESTER F E S T I VA L T H E AT R E Winner of five Olivier Awards and three Tony Awards on Broadway, the five-star theatrical phenomenon Life of Pi comes to Chichester Festival Theatre as part of its first UK tour. Based on Yann Martel’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel, which has sold over 15 million copies worldwide, Life of Pi is the hugely popular story of an epic journey of endurance and hope. After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. Who will survive? cft.org.uk
EV E N T
ADVENT
This Month’s Must See
25-26 November W E A L D & D OW N L A N D LIVING MUSEUM Head to Weald & Downland Living Museum in Chichester for Advent, a two-day event which includes an array of festive and family-friendly experiences exploring Christmas traditions from the past. There will also be a boutique Christmas market that will bring together stall holders, showcasing a range of products sourced from the local region, from arts and crafts to artisanal gifts. wealddown.co.uk
A NNIE
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13 - 18 NOVEMBER, THE HAW TH CRAWLEY
his November Craig Revel Horwood will star as Miss Hannigan in the smash hit musical Annie. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search… parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Fe stive F U N
The Winter Fair at the South of England Showground returns this November
T
his Winter Fair offers the ideal chance for visitors to kickstart their Christmas preparations and enjoy some classic festive fun with the family. Featuring an array of local, independent traders, the two-day event transforms the showground into a shopper's haven with a huge variety of stalls. Food and drink enthusiasts will revel in the offerings, including gin liqueurs, homemade preserves, gourmet pies, cheeses, wines, and handcrafted Christmas treats, including puddings and chocolates. For those seeking distinctive gifts and stocking fillers, there’s everything from wooden toys, artwork, and jewellery to crafted leather and cashmere fashion, natural soaps, grooming sets, home accessories, Christmas decorations, and much more. Beyond shopping, the fair offers hands-on experiences for all ages. Visitors can take part in wreathmaking workshops hosted by My Little Flower Boutique and have a go at chocolate decoration with Chocolate Genie. Younger visitors can delight in the vintage carousel at the funfair, step into a giant snow globe for a memorable photo, and, of course, meet Santa himself in his Grotto. Storytelling sessions featuring Mistletoe the Elf and the Christmas Tree Fairy will weave together traditional tales from the North Pole, evoking the magic of Yule and the winter realm. seas.org.uk
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NORFOLK INSPIRES ELLY, PHOTO BY HELEN HOTSON
THE GREAT DECEIVER IS ELLY'S LATEST BOOK
Q What can you tell us about
The Great Deceiver?
A The Great Deceiver is set in 1966. It
starts when a woman is found dead in her Brighton boarding house. Cherry was the assistant to a magician known professionally as The Great Deceiver. The trail leads the police, and private detectives Emma Holmes and Sam Collins, to investigate a sinister group of magicians led by a man who has reinvented himself as a television personality, known simply as Pal.
Q Why did you originally come up with the
idea to base stories in 1950s/60s Brighton?
A The Brighton Mysteries are set during
GET TO KNOW…
the last days of Variety Theatre. The 1950s saw the decline of live theatre and the rise of television (many homes getting a set for the coronation in 1953). I was inspired to write about the stage by my grandfather, Dennis Lawes, who was a comedian. I still have his playbills and the names on them are amazing, including a magician called The Gay Deceiver.
Q What is it about Brighton that
seems to inspire crime novelists?
ELLY GRIFFITHS AC C L A I M E D B R I G H TO N C R I M E AU T H O R , W I T H T H E G R E AT D E C E I V E R T H E NEXT BOOK OUT THIS MONTH
16
A I’ve lived in Brighton since I was five and,
for me, it’s a safe and happy place. But no-one can deny that Brighton has a dark side. I love the contrast between the beautiful Regency facades and the backs of the houses, dark and chaotic. The same is true of the gorgeous Theatre Royal, all gilt and velvet, and the slightly seedy-looking stage door a few streets away. This duality is perfect for a crime novel.
Q The Fatal Shore Crime Writing
Festival returns in October. What originally inspired you to set it up? A I did an event at Shoreham Wordfest in 2021 with my friend and fellow crimewriter William Shaw. It was our first live event since lockdown and it went so well
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CULTURE • PROFILE
BRIGHTON MUSEUM
that we were asked to set up a Crime Day as part of the festival. Fatal Shore is a play on Shoreham and on William’s last name. Q What is in store at this year’s festival? A We’ve got an amazing line-up including
Richard Osman, Nicci French, Kate Mosse and Saima Mir. We will be talking about spies, Agatha Christie, crime by the sea and much more. Tickets sold out really quickly – next year we’ll need a bigger room!
Q All this would keep most of us busy,
but you are a prolific writer and 2023 has been quite the year for you. Was The Last Remains tough to write as it’s the last we will see of Dr Ruth Galloway? A It was difficult, not only because it was the last (for now!), but because I had a lot of loose ends to tie up. I think I managed it and I’ve been very moved by people’s THEATRE ROYAL, PHOTO BY CARON BADKIN
reactions to the book. Now I’m looking forward to writing a new series. But first there’s a new Harbinder Kaur book, The Last Word, out in February 2024. Q Why are you calling time
on Dr Ruth Galloway?
A I felt that, after 15 books, I had to answer
the ‘will they, won’t they’ question between Ruth and DCI Nelson. Having done that, I thought they deserved a break. I might well go back to the characters one day.
Q Why are you heading into non-fiction
writing with Elly Griffiths: Norfolk?
A There are just so many wonderful Norfolk
stories and legends that didn’t make their way into the books. It seemed a great idea to combine them with Justin Minns’ beautiful photography. I hope ‘Norfolk’ is the perfect companion to the Ruth books.
Q How do you tend to write? A My day often starts with a swim – in
Saltdean Lido or the sea – then I go to my writing shed and write a thousand words. My theory is that, this way, you will have a book in 80 or 90 days. It doesn’t quite work like that but, for me, the most important thing is getting the words on the page. The editing and fine-tuning can come later. SALTDEAN LIDO, PHOTO BY TOMS AUZINS
Q What has kept you in Brighton throughout your life? A I wouldn’t live anywhere else. I love the vibrant atmosphere, the liberal values and the wonderful history. When you add the sea too, you have the perfect combination. Q Is it possible to pick out your three favourite places to visit in Brighton? A Brighton Museum – it’s a hidden gem. My favourite part is the archaeology gallery where there are wonderful facial reconstructions of Brighton’s earliest residents. The Theatre Royal – do the tour if you can and find out why one seat is always down… Saltdean Lido – I was involved with the fight to bring this Art Deco gem back into local ownership. This year the pool will be open all year round and, next year, there will be a new café and revamped library. Q Finally, why did you come up with the name Elly Griffiths when you turned to writing crime novels? A My first four books were written under my own name, Domenica de Rosa. Then, when I wrote a crime novel, I was advised to get a ‘crime name’. I chose Elly Griffiths because it had been my grandmother’s name. She died when I was four, but she loved reading so I thought she would have liked to see her name on the cover of a book.
Elly Griffiths’ The Great Deceiver is out on 24 October, priced at £22 hardback. See more at ellygriffiths.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Probate, trust & wills specialsts Call us on 0800 84 94 101 Offices across the South East
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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP
Make a
WISH Here’s your chance to go on a fantastical Christmas adventure
E
ver wondered where all your wishes go? Step into the magical world of Wishmas, an enchanted realm where your wishes take flight. Meet Wishkeepers, Robins and Father Christmas himself as you explore magical rooms and play your part to ensure no wish is ever forgotten.
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WHAT IS WISHMAS? Wishmas is a 60+minute walkthrough experience in Waterloo, London, combining the best of theatrical entertainment with an immersive experience where you’ll meet festive characters. Wishmas is a fantastical Christmas adventure that will take you on an unforgettable journey, filled with amazing characters and unbelievable sights.
• Discover the seasonal secrets of Wishmas to help keep Christmas on track; • Set your festive spirits aglow with Wintry crafts and cheer in the Wishmas Market. This comes from the creative minds behind the Secret Cinema, where a critically acclaimed production team meets your favourite time of year at Wishmas.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Wishmas tells the story of where your Wishes go, here’s a sneak peak at what to expect: • Start at the Old Bauble Factory, a magical portal to the enchanted world of Wishmas; • See where the Wishmas Robins safely stow your wishes; • Watch your wishes take flight aboard the Wishmas Train; • Play your part to make sure no wish is ever forgotten;
The Full Wishmas Experience From just £39 • Experience an exciting 75-minute immersive winter-time adventure; • Discover the story of Wishmas as you embark on a unique adventure with the Wishkeepers, Robins and even Father Christmas himself; • Journey through the Wishmas craft workshop and make your very own special memento;
• Explore the Wishmas Market and enjoy delicious festive treats. The Wishmas Meet and Greet Experience - SELLING FAST • Upgrade your Full Wishmas Experience to include an exclusive private audience for you and your family with Father Christmas; • Plus take home a commemorative photo and a special wrapped gift from Father Christmas. Both adults and children require a ticket and all will receive a gift from Father Christmas. Wishmas Standard – from just £29 • Discover the story of Wishmas in this 60-minute immersive winter-time adventure. Find out more at wishmas.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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P Friends F u r r y
PetsPyjamas: the dog-friendly travel experts offer up their top UK destination picks
20
etsPyjamas are proud to be the UK’s no 1 dog-friendly travel experts creating amazing experiences for all furry friends and family at thousands of truly dogfriendly hotels, houses and cottages with exclusive packages you just won’t find anywhere else. And with PetsPyjamas, dogs travel free saving you up to £25 a night, with 24/7 Vet Line, and access to their Priority Paws VIP club for fabulous treats, offers and upgrades. They are the fastest-growing unique travel and lifestyle brand putting people and their pets at the heart of everything they do, and they’ve won awards for their service, innovation and content. By way of example, here’s their 2024 guide to the dog-friendly UK hot spots:
A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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YORKSHIRE DALES The Dales are known for their stunning landscapes, historic towns and rich cultural heritage. Spend the day exploring Bolton Abbey and the banks of the River Wharfe before enjoying their ‘12 Days of Christmas’ festive trail. Don't miss sampling “Yorkshire Tapas” at Harrogate local eatery, or head to the plant-to-plate experience at dog-friendly Paradise Food. Try the Devonshire Arms Hotel Taste of the Dales feasting experience with homegrown fruit and vegetables from their kitchen garden, as well as being the ideal place to stay.
NEW FOREST Escape to the New Forest this winter to discover all the magic it has to offer. Grab your unique festive gifts at the Lymington Craft and Gift Market showcasing the creations of local makers, before enjoying a warming mulled wine at the Ship Inn on the cobbled harbour. Paddle to meet Santa with Christmas Canoeing in Beaulieu on a wonderful guided tour. From the doorstep of The Montagu Arms Hotel, the perfect place to stay, explore miles of beautiful forest trails, before settling in for a cosy evening at The Terrace.
LAKE DISTRICT This beautiful North West gem has an abundance of magnificent views, glacial lakes, and history, including stone circles and world-famous literary figures. For fit dogs and humans, scale the Old Man of Coniston trail for fabulous mountain scenery and views, or stargaze under the night sky at the Cumbria Dark Skies festival at a series of events in November, including a full moon swim for the brave. Add to the itinerary a trip on the iconic ‘La’al Ratty’. The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is dog-friendly and one of the oldest heritage steam trains in England. Explore the delights of the Lake District from The Coniston Inn. Try their delicious seasonal menu, a former resting stop for Charles Darwin!
FALMOUTH Serene sunsets and quiet beaches await this winter in Falmouth. Flanked by St Michael’s subtropical gardens, Gyllyngvase Beach is a jewel for sunrise walks, and cold water swims before Cornish-grown breakfast at Brasserie on the Bay. Stretch your legs along the stunning coastal path from Falmouth to Maenporth. Look out for the shipwreck in the sand at Maenporth. Visit the magical Trebah Gardens for the Creatures of the Night Trail and Fish and Chip Fridays on various dates. Throughout December, join the celebrations at the Falmouth Christmas Tree Festival. Local community groups each decorate a tree with the theme of “peace and joy” with the grand switch-on party on the 3rd. PetsPyjamas recommend a stay at St Michaels Resort & Spa.
STROUD Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Stroud is the perfect place to explore the enchanting patchwork of quaint villages and rolling hills. Selsley Common is home to the Bronze Age burial mound ‘the Toots’, but it’s the view over the River Severn and Malvern Hills into Wales that will take your breath away. The Batsford Arboretum is home to some of the world's most beautiful and rare trees, and from 1 December, the Elves are on the run, so be sure to take part in their big Elf Hunt! Every Saturday peruse the awardwinning Stroud Farmers' Market, and make sure to check out the lineup at the Sub Rooms for everything from Flamenco Classes to Kim Wilde’s winter tour. End the day with a hot chocolate and a homemade cake in front of the log fire at The Bear of Rodborough, where you should also rest your weary head.
The PetsPyjamas Promise A truly, dog-welcoming experience Expect your dog to receive as warm a welcome as you!
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Exclusive PetsPyjamas Packages From doggie afternoon tea to dog-friendly spa breaks. *T&Cs apply Explore the Pet Edit for top winter beach walks, a family gift guide, and a chance to win £500 PetsPyjamas travel vouchers. SPECIAL OFFER: PetsPyjamas’ treat to Absolutely Readers. 5% off your first booking Quote Code: 5%OFF See website terms for full Terms and Conditions.
Visit PetsPyjamas.com or call 020 3642 3162 to browse and book over 20,000 curated dog-welcoming hotels, cottages, lodges & B&Bs
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2 Events • 1 Admission • 1 Fabulous Garden
Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair
desirefair.com
craftinfocus.com
8 – 12 November
RHS Garden Wisley 10am – 4pm Weekdays • 9am – 4pm Weekends
Advance booking required • Admission to Garden also gives entry to both events • Normal Garden admission charges apply • Free entry for RHS members
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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP
Joyful return
Cirque du Soleil’s iconic Alegria is back in 2024 with a brand new reinterpretation
C
irque du Soleil returns to London to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its internationally acclaimed classic Alegría from 11 January at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. This limited series of performances will mark the European Premiere of the revival production of Alegría, a creative reinterpretation of the 1994 touring show in a whole new light. First premiered in 1994, Alegría has become one of the most beloved Cirque du Soleil shows by mesmerising over 14 million spectators in 255 cities across 40 countries until the end of its 19year world tour in 2013. Its original production performed five successful engagements in London from 1998, including four residencies at the Royal Albert Hall, making London the city Alegría has visited the most in the world. In 2019, Alegría was revived and creatively reinterpreted in a new light, ensuring that all its components – stage direction, music, acrobatics, sets, costumes, lighting and makeup designs – would be as inspiring for today’s audiences as they were at the time of the original creation. Re-energised by an international cast of 62 acrobats, clowns, musicians and singers, Alegría remains timeless and imbued with a joyous magical feeling. “We are thrilled to be bringing the revival of our classic Alegría to the Royal Albert Hall, the most popular Cirque du Soleil production ever in London with over 625,000 spectators across five visits. We are proud to have concluded an additional five-year agreement with the Royal Albert Hall for the presentation of our touring shows,” says Duncan J. Fisher, President – Touring Shows, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. Undeniably the most iconic Cirque du Soleil production, Alegría (‘joy’ in Spanish) is an all-time classic reimagined for a new generation to fall in love with. An immersive
“Expect an international cast of 62 acrobats, clowns, musicians and singers”
experience, Alegría whisks audiences away to a mystical world sprinkled with visual poetry and acrobatic extravagance. At the heart of a once-glorious kingdom that has lost its king, Alegría witnesses the power struggle at play between the old order and the youth in their quest for hope and renewal. As the court jester clumsily tries to take the throne, a growing desire for change emerges from the street to shake the status quo and bring joy to the world. With its unforgettable soundtrack, exciting acrobatics, surreal costume designs, vibrant set and playful humour, Alegría touches the soul and lives up to its global reputation of quintessential Cirque du Soleil spectacle. Cirque du Soleil started its muchloved annual residency at the Royal Albert Hall in 1996, becoming a staple of entertainment at the famous London venue as it becomes a permanent big top for over two months each year. cirquedusoleil.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,680 for a 2 bed, £4,630 for a 3 bed and £5,080 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.
Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR + 44 (0)1764 694321 OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM
The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneaglesto provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may beobtained by contacted us via the above methods.
Walberton Place Care Home
Our facilities include:
Walberton Place Care Home provides the highest standards of family-led residential and dementia care. Our home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Walberton Place feel extra special.
• Warm inclusive family atmosphere • Person-centred dementia care • Daily fine dining • Spacious en-suite bedrooms • Café, pub, cinema & hair salon • Landscaped gardens
To book your tour give us a call on 01243 551549 01243 551 549
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www.countrycourtcare.com
Yapton Lane, Walberton, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 0AS
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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP
What your H E A R T D E S I R E S Two exciting shopping events await you at RHS Garden Wisley this November
N ALEXANDRA SIMPSON
ovember is here, and with it comes the promise of a delightful shopping experience at RHS Garden Wisley. Craft In Focus is back, and it is bringing two spectacular events that are sure to kick-start your Christmas shopping or treat yourself to something special. From 8-12 November, RHS Garden Wisley will be the setting for the immensely popular Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair, running concurrently with a Contemporary Craft Fair. Prepare to be enthralled by an array of original and inspiring contemporary crafts. From fine art and textiles to furniture, interior accessories, ceramics, fashion, glassware, sculpture, and metalwork – there's something for everyone with an appreciation for UK designer crafts and art. In the adjacent exhibition hall at RHS Hilltop, visitors will find a stunning collection of contemporary jewellery and stylish silversmithing work available for purchase. It is the perfect opportunity to find unique pieces or discover an exceptional gift for someone special. One of the standout features of these events is the commitment to showcasing the work of exceptionally talented UK makers. You will not find any
ALEXANDRA AURUM
RHS HILLTOP AT RHS GARDEN WISLEY, SURREY
ANTHONY THEAKSTON
imported or mass-produced items here; instead, you will be treated to the finest craftsmanship and originality that the UK’s designer makers and artists have to offer. This dedication to promoting contemporary UK work sets these events apart, ensuring that you're getting something truly unique and supporting professional, independent UK makers. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, find a one-of-a-kind gift, or even commission a bespoke piece for a special occasion, you’ll enjoy a visit to these events. The picturesque backdrop of RHS Garden Wisley, with its surprising winter colours, adds an extra layer of charm to your shopping experience. Plan your visit between 10am-4pm on weekdays or from 9am-4pm on the weekend. Admission to the garden also grants you access to both events, making it a fantastic day out. Advance booking required. For more information about these events, contact Craft In Focus at 01622 747 325 or visit their website at craftinfocus.com. The venue address is RHS Garden Wisley, Nr Woking, GU23 6QB. For additional details, including admission prices to RHS Garden Wisley, visit rhs.org.uk/wisley A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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START YOUR JOURNEY AT WISHMAS.CO.UK PERFORMANCES FROM 14 NOVEMBER THE OLD BAUBLE FACTORY, WATERLOO PIPTASTIC DRINKS & SNACKS
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Christmas S
P
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I
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Under the TREE
Looking for Christmas gift inspiration and get ahead of the crowds? Inside this mini festive special, we pick out the perfect gift ideas that cover all the family.
In this sect ion G I F T S F O R H E R 28 G I F T S F O R K I D S 30 G I F T S F O R H I M 31
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THOMAS SABO
AEYDE
Fine Jewellery Piercing Studs, from £175 saboteur.world
Elijah Earrings, £125 aeyde.com
SMYTHSON Envelope Cross Body Bag, £595 smythson.com
DIPTYQUE Candle Lantern, £65 libertylondon.com
PENELOPE CHILVERS Wyoming Cotton Socks, Three Pack, £35 penelopechilvers.com
NUDIENT iPhone 12 Cases, £35 nudient.co.uk
PENELOPE CHILVERS Goldie Embroidered Cowboy Boot, £329 penelopechilvers.com
Gifts for
HER All she wants for Christmas
EDITOR’S PICK
PERL COSMETICS Nourishing Lash Oil, £22 perlcosmetics.com
By PENDLE HARTE
KLEVERING Shell Candle Holder, £63 madeindesign.co.uk
LEILA SWIFT JEWELLERY Lila Necklace, £105 leilaswift.com
SILHOUETTE
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Fuschl in Black, £265 silhouette.com
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CHRISTMAS • GIFTS SHIDA PRESERVED FLOWERS
EBERJEY Tartan Plaid Pyjama Set, £200 harveynichols.com
Bouquets from £25 shida.florist
CANDIER Can't Talk... Candle, £31 koibird.com
JURLIQUE Rose Hand and Body Indulgence Set, £82 jurlique.co.uk
PAUL & JOE JO MALONE LONDON
GAETANO PESCE
Refreshing Mist anthropologie.com
Limited Edition Christmas Bottle, £124 johnlewis.com
Handmade Resin Nugget Vase, £195 koibird.com
MATCHBOX Rosie Hoops, £30 matchboxjewellery.com
ONITSUKA TIGER Mexico 66SD, £155 onitsukatiger.com
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ORCHARD TOYS
CHRISTMAS • GIFTS
Games, £12.00 orchardtoys.com
EDITOR’S PICK
VANS Kids checkerboard classic slip-ons, £37 vans.co.uk
HECTOR'S POST Personalised books, £29.99 hectorspost.com
BANWOOD Classic bike in green, £290 banwood.com
TONY'S CHOCOLONEY
RIDLEY'S
Christmas chocolate pouch, £10 anthropologie.com
Avocado Smash game, £11.99 johnlewis.com
Gifts for
LEGO Lego storage head, £19.99 johnlewis.com
JOHN LEWIS Play cafe set, £40 johnlewis.com
KIDS All the best presents for under-11s
RACHEL ELLEN Bee Happy umbrella, £12 rachelellen.co.uk
By PENDLE HARTE
JELLYCAT Toastie Amusable Avocado, £22 anthropologie.com
TINC
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Boogie disco light, £17.50 tinc.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS • GIFTS ALESSI Parrot Sommelier Corkscrew, £50 alessi.com
EDITOR’S PICK
MARSHALL Major IV Headphones, £129.99 marshallheadphones.com
RAPHA Logo Socks, £14 johnlewis.com
BERLUTI Peak Point Leather Boot, £1,880 berluti.com
Gifts for
HIM
What do men want this year? Here's our edit By PENDLE HARTE
HARLEQUIN X SOPHIE ROBINSON Sherbet Stripe Robe, £95 johnlewis.com
GANT Checked Pyjama Set, £100 gant.co.uk
ONITSUKA TIGER Track Top, £150 onitsukatiger.com
MOSCOT Sheister Sunglasses, £325 moscot.com
BROOKLANDS WATCH COMPANY CREP PROTECT Ultimate Shoe Care Gift Set, £35 johnlewis.com
PAUL SMITH
Triple-Four Racing Chronograph, £5,754 brooklandswatches.com
Early Bird Scented Candle, £65 paulsmith.com
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Wednesday & Thursday: 18:30 - 23:00 Friday & Saturday: 12:30 - 16:00 | 18:30 - 23:00 01273 031 594 | bookings@furnarestaurant.co.uk 6 New Rd, Brighton, BN1 1UF
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FOOD & DRINK
EXPERTLY CRAFTED ROEBUCK ESTATES
Nestled in the beautiful Sussex countryside, Roebuck Estates crafts outstanding vintage sparkling wines each and every single year, using only the finest estate-grown fruit. Their vintage sparkling wines are a wonderful expression of the growing season in which they were made and make a truly delightful pairing to cherished ‘vintage’ moments, making any celebratory occasion even more special. roebuckestates.co.uk
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ON THE Brighton Bake Off star Jürgen Krauss on monstrous creations, a windy wedding and musical mastery By DENISE TYLER
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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW
LEBKUCHENHERZEN
J
ürgen Krauss was the star of The Great British Bake Off in 2021, his semi-final departure triggering over 100 complaints from dismayed viewers and turning him into a baking celebrity overnight. His new book, German Baking, features cakes, traybakes, tarts, and breads from his homeland – from apple marzipan tarts to the classic Black Forest gateau – and is peppered with wonderful stories of his early life in the Black Forest. His love for baking began during his childhood when he and his brother baked with his mother and grandmother. “My brother and I would join my mother in making Christmas cookies. We would make the pastry – usually some kind of sugar cookie pastry – and she gave us complete freehand in shaping things. We would make monstrous things that nobody would want to eat, but it was just so much fun,” he laughs. Since Bake Off, Jurgen has been in demand to appear at foodie festivals and baking demonstrations, as well as running baking classes at the Open Bakery in Kemptown. He still works as an IT professional 80% of the time, but since the pandemic, he only has to travel to London from his home in Brighton two times a month. But does that leave more time for baking? “I’m still baking once or twice a week, but in fact being at home more is a double edged sword,” he says. “You get the benefit of not having to commute, but at the same time, you are more accessible to family. I find balancing that almost a greater challenge!”
CHRISTMAS STOLLEN
Jurgen’s journey to Sussex began at school where he enjoyed learning English and a family holiday brought him to the Lake District, which he loved. But it was a chance meeting much later that convinced him to move to the UK. “I was still living in Germany when I became interested in the Feldenkrais method of movement, where the idea is to make flexible minds by making bodies more flexible,” he explains. “I was bored at my job so looked for a Feldenkrais training course, and there happened to be one in Lewes. I came over to study and there I met my wife who was also studying on the course. We had about a six month long-distance relationship and eventually I moved over [in 2003] and we were married on the cliffs at Seven Sisters. It was an important place to us as we had been for many sunset walks there. On our wedding day, it was stormy and rainy, but once we kissed the skies opened up and we danced on top of Haven Brow.” Since Bake Off he has had many incredible experiences and not just all to do with baking. An accomplished trombonist, he has an open invitation to play at Glyndebourne
with the second trombonist of the London Philharmonic. They met when he was invited to make the orchestra a 90th birthday cake and presented it to them at a concert at the Brighton Dome in October last year. But it’s not just Jurgen who is musical; Sophia, his wife, is a violinist and his son Benjamin, 17, has followed him on the trombone. “I’ve taught my son trombone pretty much all his life and now he’s interested in going and studying music to be a jazz trombonist,” Jürgen smiles. “Both my son and I play for the Sussex Jazz Orchestra, which is a community band. It’s open – you don’t have to audition – and it’s huge fun.” Although he has lived in Brighton since moving to the UK, Jurgen and his family like to get out into the Sussex countryside for long walks. After the intense time of Bake Off, his understanding employers gave him an extra week off which he used to reconnect with Sophia and Benjamin. “We took the bus to Chichester and then walked from there all the way to Winchester on the South Downs Way. It took us three days and one night we stayed at Langrish House. They used to have a factory in the garden where they built the nose cones for the concord and it was also the site of a big battle in the civil war. A really interesting place!” With Christmas coming up it will be time to start baking all the seasonal cakes and breads that are featured in his book. I ask him what he would recommend as a Christmas present for any prospective – or experienced – bakers, and the answer was much simpler than I expected: “A dough scraper! They’re these rectangular pieces of metal, sometimes called a bench knife, with a plastic handle. Make sure it’s smooth, not serrated. You don’t need any measurements printed on it. It just needs to be a straight, smooth edge. It’s so useful to portion dough, but it’s also useful to clean the work surface and anything else!” German Baking by Jürgen Krauss, published by Kyle Books. Photography by Maja Smend
ZIMTSTERNE LIGHTS
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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES
DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month By PENDLE HARTE
PRETTY IN PINK R AC Q U E T R O S É The Rochambeau Club, a distinguished members-only institution on the Côte d’Azur, has made their fabulous rosé, Racquet, available to purchase for the first time outside of club grounds. This lovely little Côtes-de-Provence AOP is perfectly created for idyllic long afternoons and boasts excellent mineral structure with subtle notes of white peach and citrus, with a beguiling, refreshing finish.
therochambeauclub.com
TWO PEAS POD Pod is the first British, sustainable vodka that’s made from 100% British peas and tastes like peas. It's a fresh and flavourful vodka with sweet, vegetal pea notes, a touch of citrus, light savoury tones and a silky finish. Not only are its peas 100% British, but the water, labels and glass are all locally sourced.
podpeavodka.com
ALCOHOL FREE PENTIRE Just launched at Waitrose is non-alcoholic aperitif, Coastal Spritz, which features Pentire's signature coastal botanicals, blended with Blood Orange, Sea Rosemary and Oakwood to create the perfect balance of natural bitter flavours and refreshing coastal tones. It's plant-based, low calorie and delicious, £27.80.
pentiredrinks.com
SPOTLIGHT
The art of great gin Ginagain
R
ick Allen, Ginagain's founder and artist, had a flavour profile figured out for a gin almost 20 years ago. Growing up on the edge of California's Central Valley where most of the fruit and citrus farms can be found, oranges were always in abundance. When he fell in love with gin, while travelling in England in the 90s, he decided to put the two together and intially created a compound gin for friends and family. It wasn't until Covid lockdown, when there was an abundance of time and an orange tree in the front yard in his house in Santa Cruz California, that he started to perfect the recipe. Working with an independant distillery in the UK in February 2022 saw Ginagain launch its first edition, a tiny batch run in a copper pot still. A true London Dry gin, the imported organic Californian orange peel shines through like a hot summer's day in the Central Valley without the overly sweet notes in some of the flavoured gin on the market. Recently awarded 93 points by the International Drinks Specialists, they reviewed Ginagain as inviting, bright and open nose with a balance between green herbs, spices, roots and fruity notes. There’s a hint of floral citrus and some lovely juniper too – it's complex and elegant on the nose. What's more, it's well priced at £39, so this should one for all gin lovers. ginagain.com
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FA S H I O N
FOREST FRUITS LULU GUINNESS X BELL HUTLEY
Handbag designer Lulu Guinness has teamed up with interiors artist Bell Hutley to launch an adorable accessory capsule inspired by Baba Yaga’s ‘Forbidden Forest’. Red chalk mushroom purses meet toadstool topped basket bags and charms with a dark and whimsical aesthetic. luluguinness.com
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FASHION • JEWELLERY
Ear Candy
Perfect earrings for curating an artful ear stack B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G
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ERIN FADER JEWELRY
GROWN BRILLIANCE
ITA
24K Gold Plated and Cubic Zirconia Crawlers, £28 erinfaderjewelry.com
14K Yellow Gold Round Lab Grown Diamond Huggies, £268 grownbrilliance.com
14K Yellow Gold Triple Ray White Diamond Ear Cuff, £1,730 itajewelry.com
JEMMA WYNNE
MELISSA KAYE
KARMA EL KHALIL
18K Yellow Gold Escalator Ear Cuff, £670 jemmawynne.com
18K Yellow Gold Lola Needle Earrings, £2,150 melissakayejewelry.com
18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Sunrise Ear Cuff, £25,963 karmaelkhalil.com
OLIVER BLANDI
MILAMORE
RITIQUE
18K Gold Diamond Burst Single Threader Earrings, £1,331 (single) oliverblandi.com
18K Recycled Yellow Gold and Akoya Pearl Earring, £1,338 (single) en.milamorejewelry.com
18K Yellow Gold Tricone Small Hoop Earrings, £2,903 ritique.com
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Winter
WARMERS Boden’s new collection – available now at John Lewis Horsham – features lots of bright colours, fun knitwear and classic styles that will see us through cosy days out this month BODEN.CO.UK
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Celebrating Life's Special Moments Since 1886
Celebrating a lifetime of love, our exquisite selection of wedding rings encompasses every style, design and price point.
You've said 'Yes' to the dress, now for a little extra sparkle, discover our collection of bridal, diamond and fine jewellery.
For your bridesmaids & groomsmen, our selection of luxury gifts offers the perfect way to say 'Thank You' to those you hold close.
Find Us In The Beacon, Eastbourne 01323 725452 AD BRUFORDS.indd 44
01323 725452
jewellery@brufords.com
brufords.com
jewellery@brufords.com
brufords.com
17/10/2023 13:08
WEDDINGS
MAKE HISTORY BURY MANOR BARN
Bury Manor Barn is one of the finest wedding venues in Sussex and can be found at the end of a quiet village lane, on the banks of the River Arun, enjoying panoramic views of the valley. Steeped in history, records of the Manor date back to the Domesday Book. Bury Manor has had many incarnations – from a monastic building in the 12th century to a traditional manor house. This is an incredibly individual and special venue, perfect to make your wedding a memorable one. burymanorbarn.co.uk
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AMY & SAM
Personal journey
Sussex photographer, Philip Bedford, takes us behind the scenes of four unforgettable local weddings Photography PHILIP BEDFORD
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WEDDINGS • FOCUS
AMY & SAM
In the heart of West Sussex lies an enchanting venue perfect for celebrating love: the Grittenham Barn. As a West Sussex wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed many love stories unfold, but this particular wedding was nothing short of a fairy tale. The bride’s journey to the ceremony was opulent, with a classic Bentley paving her way as a surprise. The timeless elegance of this vehicle under the sun painted a vintage canvas reminiscent of old Hollywood. Grittenham Barn was adorned with twinkling fairy lights, complementing the rustic charm of the barn and its surrounding West Sussex countryside. As the bride and groom exchanged their vows during their civil wedding, the beauty of English wildflowers – in hues of blues, yellows, pinks, and whites – added a burst of colour and texture to the barn’s ambiance. The arrangements in milk churns and the hanging flower ‘bombs’ in both the ceremony and reception rooms were a testament to the couple’s exquisite taste. The jubilant mood spilled outside postceremony with confetti, more snaps with the Bentley, and, of course, their adorable golden retriever adding a playful touch to the photographs. We wandered around the lake and the expansive grounds of the barn, capturing intimate moments against the backdrop of the mesmerising West Sussex countryside and South Downs National Park.
DALE & DANIEL
DALE & DANIEL
The journey of this Arundel Town Hall wedding began in a quaint cottage in West Sussex. The day kicked off with groom prep photography, capturing intimate moments and details that set the tone for what was to be a memorable day at the Arundel Town Hall. Nestled in the historic heart of West Sussex, Arundel Town Hall is the perfect venue for those looking for an idyllic setting with timeless charm. This iconic venue was the backdrop for the civil ceremony that resonated with love and joy. Taking inspiration from the natural beauty of West Sussex, the wedding’s colour palette featured navy blue, dusty blue, and pristine whites. These colours are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also symbolise depth, trust, and new beginnings – the perfect representation of a budding marital bond.
Attention to detail was evident in the wedding décor at Arundel Town Hall. Upstairs, the dinner scene was set with trestle tables adorned with white linen and dusty blue table runners. Centrepieces showcased jars filled with local flowers like delphinium, gypsophila, eucalyptus, and white roses. Rainbow badges were used as wedding favours and a soda drink, Kinnie, was served in bottles on the tables. Kinnie is a Maltese bittersweet carbonated soft drink brewed from bitter oranges and extracts of wormwood, and is part of Dale’s childhood from growing up in Malta. Meanwhile, the downstairs space was transformed into a lively celebration area, boasting a rainbow balloon arch, black draping illuminated by fairy lights, and neon rainbow signs – all perfectly complemented by the DJs pulsating lights for the first dance.
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EMMA & MICHAEL
EMMA & MICHAEL
Emma & Michael’s Fitzleroi Barn autumn wedding wasn’t hampered by the wet weather at all. We got some amazing wet weather wedding photographs as they braved the October weather in West Sussex. We arrived for the civil ceremony at Fitzleroi Barn (where I’ve shot many, many times!) and the barn was beautifully decorated with fairy lights in the rafters and sprigs of flowers on the aisle chairs. We actually ended up clearing the ceremony room afterwards in order to shoot the group photos indoors due to the wet weather, but after this, we went out under a couple of umbrellas for some epic shots in the rain! After the wedding breakfast we went back out in the rain with the help of the best men to get a couple more shots. The dark and moody atmosphere worked really well with the flash light behind the bride and groom. We then dried off for the cake cutting and first dance afterwards and they danced the night away under the shelter of the cosy lights in the rafters of the barn.
Pangdean had some lawn games laid out for the wedding drinks reception, which is always good fun for wedding guests to enjoy, the pedal go-kart being a firm favourite! I’m also a huge fan of Pangdean Barn weddings as they have a great step ladder for capturing a group shot in the garden. The barn was dressed beautifully, with fairy lights in the rafters and a stunning cheese wedding cake, along with flower decorations and small jute bags containing seed bombs – these were also labelled as place settings for wedding guests. I always try and get up on the South Downs for a couple of shots overlooking the Sussex countryside, and we got one shot using some off-camera flash at sunset.
THE CAKE AT EMMA & MICHAEL'S WEDDING
“We got some amazing wet weather photos as they braved the Sussex rain”
pbweddingphotography.com CHARLOTTE & DUNCAN
CHARLOTTE & DUNCAN
This was a civil ceremony at Pangdean Barn. This wedding photo shoot started at the bride’s parents house near Horsham in West Sussex, for some bridal prep photos of the wedding dress hanging up – I found a lovely spot for this on the stairway. Bridesmaids were wearing navy, and the bride was wearing traditional ivory, whereas the groomsmen were dressed in tweed grey with a golden/orange tie. Charlotte and Duncan had an outdoor ceremony with two readings by friends from university before Duncan’s nephew played the role of ringbearer in this lovely countryside setting. Rose petal confetti was thrown as the bride and groom walked up the aisle and then we got a couple of photographs by the countryside gate at the top of the garden before throwing more confetti.
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. the little art gallery ....
A Coastal Contemporary Gallery West Wittering West Sussex, PO20 8LT 01243 512218 | www.thelittlegallery.online LITTLEARTGALLERY_HP_ABS_SUSSEX_NOV23_v2.indd 1
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For a day like no other. Choose a setting like no other. Castle Goring Arundel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN13 3UN T: 07791 673070 • E: lisa@carmelmedia.co.uk • castlegoring.com CASTLE_GORING_ABS_SUSSEX_MARCH2023_v1.indd 1
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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
Jewel of
Eastbourne
Why Brufords are the go-to for the day you say “I do”
A
re you planning your wedding, but are yet to find the rings you’ll exchange on your special day? At Brufords jewellers in Eastbourne they’ve played a small part in many a customer’s love story since their founding in 1886 and are extremely proud to be an Official Stockist of Brown & Newirth bridal jewellery.
HANDCRAFTED FOR A LIFETIME
With over 50 years’ experience in co-writing love stories, British brand Brown & Newirth strives to make choosing jewellery for the “most important moments in your life” an experience in itself. Using high quality materials, inspired design, and the finest craftsmanship to create timeless keepsakes that last forever, each piece of Brown & Newirth jewellery is hand-crafted in the brand’s UK workshop, with each ring going through 20 stages of development, from design to the finished product. Each Brown & Newirth wedding ring is also accompanied with the brand’s Tender Loving Care pack. Including a complimentary engraving, resizing, refinishing, lifetime guarantee, and free insurance for one year, the TLC package ensures that the memories last a lifetime.
BESPOKE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Providing their customers with the very best when it come to choosing jewellery for life’s precious moments and beyond, in April 2023 Brufords opened their bespoke Brown & Newirth bridal boutique, which is located within their The Beacon showroom. Currently one of 30 premium independent retailers in the UK chosen by Brown & Newirth to offer the ultimate jewellery buying experience, at Brufords they pride themselves on delivering incredible quality, exceptional choice and value for money. Their exquisite collection of wedding rings showcases plain, patterned and diamond set pieces, which are available in a variety of metal choices including 9ct and 18ct gold, platinum and palladium. Plus, you can also make one of life’s special moments even more memorable with their “Bridal by Appointment” service. Offered exclusively at their Eastbourne premises, you can enjoy a glass of champagne whilst one of their friendly and experienced bridal jewellery experts helps you and your partner to discover the perfect way to symbolise your love and commitment to one another. BRUFORDS For more information on Brown & Newirth, or to book your “Bridal by Appointment”, contact Brufords by telephone on 01323 725452 or email to jewellery@brufords.com
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CuckfieldBathrooms The Clockhouse, High Street RH17 5JX • Telephone: 01444 414 888
on display at CuckfieldBathrooms
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
HAIR HEROES MONDAY HAIRCARE New Zealand-based brand MONDAY Haircare has launched their first shampoo and conditioner range since landing in the UK. CLARIFY banishes excess oil and build-up, and REPAIR rescues dry and damaged hair. All of the brand's products are free from nasties and the packaging is recyclable, £5 each. lookfantastic.com
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Get ready with Dr Nyla for the festive season
Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of Britain’s most familiar faces in the media industry. Founder and Medical Director of Doctor Nyla Medispa is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic Dermatology GP and is considered one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Having practised medicine for over 20 years and having personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with truly exceptional results, she has gained the admiration of the industry.
follow us on @doctornyla | 0162 552 3307 | 0800 009 6661 For treatment or FREE consultation please contact Medispa or visit www.doctornyla.com
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WHY CHOOSE MEDISPA Winner of the prestigious “BTL Face of the year” award.
The largest Skin Tightening clinic in the United Kingdom.
The largest Ultracel Clinic outside of London.
The only Diamond Premiere Coolsculpting clinic outside London and the second largest Coolsculpting clinic in Europe
“Clinic of the year 2019/20” at the safety in Beauty Awards.
T R A N S FO R M AT I O N FAC E L I F T ™ The Transformation Facelift™ is a bespoke treatment from Doctor Nyla, unique to her clinics and combining a variety of incredible antiageing treatments to make you look and feel 10 years younger in the space of only six weeks! The next generation, multiplatform transformational facial offered exclusively at Dr Nyla. This treatment offers non-surgical skin tightening and lifting to treat all anti-ageing concerns – from textured, dull skin, to deep wrinkles and loss of laxity. The treatment programme can combine a number of super technologies dependant upon your specific concerns such as Ultherapy, Exilis Elite radio frequency, Morpheus skin needling as well as tweaking with injectable enhancements where necessary, To give immediate & long-term results with minimal downtime. The skin will begin to
feel smoother and tighter after the first treatment and results will continue to improve for up to six months. The skin ageing process happens to everyone, and is a completely natural process. However, it can be very difficult for some people, and make them lose confidence in their appearance. As we get older, the production of collagen and elastin in our bodies slows, causing the common signs of skin ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles
and a loss of volume in the skin. Collagen and elastin are the proteins that exist within many of the body’s tissues, including the skin, and gives structural support, strength, elasticity and durability to the skin.
AVAILABLE TREATMENT • • • • •
Aqualyx fat dissolving Anti-wrinkle injections Dermal fillers Dissolving lip fillers Coolsculpting fat removal
• • • • •
Emerald laser Profhilo Emsculpt EMface Ultherapy
• • • • •
Transformation facelift 8 point facelift Exilis elite Carbon laser peel M22 laser
Medispa Mayfair : 32 Dover Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4NE
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Futuristic Glaucoma care in the blink of an eye Have you been diagnosed with Glaucoma? The NEW Direct Selective Laser Therapy (DSLT) is a rapid, pain free procedure that takes just a few seconds per eye and may eliminate or reduce the need for eye drops.
Accessible First-Line Glaucoma care for all To book your appointment, or to find out more Call us on 0808 149 9538 email us at enquiries@centreforsight.com or visit www.centreforsight.com
AD FOR SIGHT.indd 56 SP A4 Ad - Absolutely Sussex Magazine.indd 1 CFSCENTRE 00077 Glaucoma Laser Machine
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP
pain free results by stimulating collagen production and promoting a more youthful and lifted appearance. For an even more sculpted and lift appearance, ultherapy uses focused ultrasound imaging to stimulate the growth of new collagen deep within the skin.
DULL, UNEVEN TEXTURE Skin may lose its youthful radiance and develop an uneven texture, which can be exacerbated by factors like dehydration and environmental stress. How to reverse: Hydrafacials (£110) as well as injectable moisturisers (AquaGold, Volite, Prohilo) are all proven to enhance skin tone, texture, and moisture, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.
G O I N G
SKIN DEEP How the 109 Wellness Clinic can highlight your skin condition and offer solutions to any problem areas
H
ave you ever wondered what the true age of your skin is? Factors such as the sun, pollution, repetitive facial expressions, and hormonal changes can all add up to cause ageing of the skin – despite our best efforts at protection. The 109 Wellness Clinic in Sussex introduces a state-of-the-art face scanner that accurately assesses the age and condition of your skin. This advanced technology enables their skin experts to tailor premium treatments to address some of the biggest signs of aging...
FINE LINES AND WRINKLES The first signs of aging often appear as fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. These can deepen into more pronounced wrinkles over time. How to reverse: The most effective noninvasive treatments include injectables (£245) and dermal fillers. These treatments smooth out lines, restoring a youthful and fresh appearance.
LOSS OF FIRMNESS As we age, our skin's natural elasticity diminishes, leading to sagging and a loss of firmness. How to reverse: SkinPen Microneedling procedures (£250) can achieve amazing
AGE SPOTS AND PIGMENTATION Sun exposure can lead to the formation of age spots, also known as liver spots, and uneven pigmentation. How to reverse: Peels such as Obagi Blue (£120) remove the uppermost layers of the skin allowing new skin cells to resurface as smoother, brighter-looking and rejuvenated skin, after just one use. The green light wave length of LED treatment (£45) is perfect for calming the skin and dealing with these issues. The esteemed medical aesthetics team of doctors and nurses provide the highest standard of treatment and care. They strive for beautifully natural-looking results with each anti-aging procedure. And the clinic's elegant setting creates a serene atmosphere that complements the high-end treatments, ensuring you experience pampering at its finest. Bookings are now available for their Christmas Preview event on Friday 10 November: £10 tickets are available for 10am-12noon and 12-2pm and include product tasters, procedure demonstrations and skin care talks, as well as access to pre sale offers on products and gift cards. Call or buy online. Head to 109wellnessclinic.com, call 01903 350109 or visit at 109 Sea Road East Preston, West Sussex BN16 1NX A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Private GP Services • Health Assessments • Skin Health & Aesthetics Nutrition & lifestyle • Massage Therapies • Mental Health Wellbeing Bookings are now being taken for our Christmas Preview event on Friday 10th November: £10 tickets are available for 10am-12noon and 12-2pm - call or buy online Book your appointment: 01903 350109 • www.109wellnessclinic.com Visit us at our beautiful coastal location: 109 Sea Road, East Preston, BN16 1NX
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP
“Centre for Sight is proud to be one of only three hospitals currently able to offer this revolutionary treatment to patients”
SEEING CLEARLY
D
Welcome to the new standard in first-line Glaucoma care
irect Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) offers a novel way of treating glaucoma by lowering elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Taking less than five seconds, with the press of a button, a low energy light is delivered to the eye which stimulates intraocular fluid outflow, thus lowering your IOP, which is the main risk factor of Glaucoma. Q Why should you consider DSLT? A DSLT is a gentle, non-contact way to
lower your IOP. In addition, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty is recommended as an option for initial treatment of Open Angle Glaucoma (OAG) by the European Glaucoma Society (GES) and the National Institute of Care Excellence (NICE UK)
is guiding doctors to use laser before drops for primary open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Traditional SLT takes between 15 to 20 minutes to accomplish in expert hands, whereas the DSLT treatment is able to accomplish the treatment in less than five seconds per eye. Centre for Sight is proud to be one of only three hospitals currently able to offer this revolutionary treatment to patients.
assured that your natural eye movements are followed by the eye tracker. Once your eye is aligned, your doctor will initiate treatment at the touch of a button. It’s that simple. Following the treatment, you may experience some discomfort in the treated eye, but this should pass. In general, you can expect to return to your normal activities after the procedure. Q How successful is SLT? A Success rates of between 60% and
90% have been reported in a variety of studies. The LIGHT study revealed a success rate of 78%. Pressures take about two to three months to lower and the effect of SLT can last for five years. Centre for Sight East Grinstead would be delighted to help Glaucoma patients. You can find more information at centreforsight.com/ selective-laser-trabeculoplasty-slt-anddslt or alternatively call 01342 306020
Q How does the procedure work? A Prior to your scheduled procedure, eye
drops will be applied in order to lower your eye pressure. You will then be assisted in getting comfortably positioned in front of the laser machine. Treatment is noncontact other than a lid-speculum to keep the eye open during the procedure. Once positioned in front of the laser, focus your gaze on the panel in front of you, where you will see a red dot appear. Rest A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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S700 Elliptical 22 digital resistance levels 31 pre-set workout programmes
GET YOUR DREAM HOME GYM AT AN UNBEATABLE PRICE
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Ready to start training at home? With the help of Fitness Superstore, you can design a personal workout haven that’s tailored to your own needs and budget. Discover some of the industry’s biggest brands at the best possible prices, get some top home gym advice from our expert team and get to grips with any of our cardio and strength products in-store before you buy. Come and see us at our Tunbridge Wells store today!
E8.2 Elliptical
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IC1 Group Exercise Bike
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Replace 15 sets of dumbbells with just one pair Adjust your weights between 2-24kg
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DISCOVER OUR RANGE OF TREADMILLS, BIKES, CROSS TRAINERS, RACKS, WEIGHTS & BARBELLS Try Before You Buy
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS
FITNESS
TOP
PICKS
NOTES
THREE PIECES FROM KHLOÉ KARDASHIAN X FABLECTIC S
By CARLY GLENDINNING
FRAME SCULPTING Reflecting Khloé's personal style, this frame sculpting bra delivers on high fashion and high performance. It's made from Fablectic's signature fabrics: designed for high sweat, ultimate comfort, and flexibility, £44.
G R AC E F U L
MOVES
CARGO ST YLE In shades of terracotta and St Tropez coral, this Cargo jacket perfectly reflects the collection's desert-inspired theme. With daily utility in mind, it's big on versatility, style, and – of course – wearability, £139.
BUNGEE LEGGINGS Designed to complement form, these high waisted leggings are made from Fabletics' signature Motion365+ fabric – the brand's highest sweat fabric that's cool to the touch, £89. All available at fabletics.co.uk
Absolutely Sussex stretches and sculpts with Chrissy Sundt's online platform Silver Linings
A
s a time-poor toddler mum, getting out of the house to do exercise can be tricky. Anything beyond the gym days I’ve preagreed with my husband is a challenge at the moment, so I always appreciate being able to exercise at home (squeezing in a quick training session during nap time is a dream!). Doing the same videos day-in-day-out can get dull very quickly though. So I was excited to discover the Silver Linings platform, which has new content added to it regularly. Silver Linings was founded by Chrissy Sundt, a classical Pilates, Yoga and barre instructor who also has a passion for holistic wellness. Chrissy has been teaching for over 20 years and combines
education with her ongoing work as a choreographer. After eight years of training at the Royal Ballet School and a dance career that saw her dance with both the Royal Ballet and the Birmingham Royal Ballet, an ankle injury led her to discover the rehabilitative benefits of Pilates. After teaching in multiple boutique studios across London, a series of trips to Kamalame Cay (the postcard-perfect private island in the Bahamas) inspired her to launch her first Silver Linings Wellbeing retreat. Two channels on YouTube: ‘SL By Chrissy’ and ‘Silver Linings @Home’ aim to bring the benefits of her retreats to a wider audience. The athome classes deliberately avoid expensive equipment, and users only need a mat to participate. Classes are delivered by a roster
of brilliant practitioners – with specialisms from Yoga to mediation, HITT, barre, core, and more. What I’ve really loved is the varying length of the classes – with quick 12 minute workouts and more in-depth 45 minute-long classes (perfect for those with demanding schedules). The way the classes combine different disciplines is also refreshing, and all the movements can be modified, depending on the level you’re at. As an ex-ballet dancer myself, I've really enjoyed Chrissy's choreography and pacing as well. All-in-all it’s safe to say I’m hooked already, and the best bit? There's no negotiations about leaving the house. silverliningswellbeing.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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INTERIORS
PA ST E L SH A D E HOUSE OF
The Stripe printed shade is perfect for updating existing light fittings without having to worry about hard wiring new pendant lights. Hand drawn, digitally printed onto 100% cotton canvas and hand assembled in the UK, the new range of fabric shades supports local designers and industries. houseof.com
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Maker Emma Wood on transforming homes, making money go further and why she loves being based in Sussex
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INTERIORS • PROFILE
“I like a project to smile, to have charm and not take itself too seriously” Q When did interior design become a
serious career consideration for you? A I think when I realised that over my 25year career in design, I had gathered all the essential skills required to apply them to the field I was most passionate about: interior decoration. I love working with people and helping them create their dream homes. The vision for my business was to offer a design service that isn't stuffy or expensive. I like a project to smile, to have charm and not take itself too seriously. Comfort, function, and finish always take priority. Q When did you decide to launch
your own business and was there a particular catalyst for it? A Friends and family had always admired my taste in interiors and decorating. It wasn't until my husband and I decided to move our young family to the stunning county of Sussex that I seriously considered interiors being a full-time job. A property developer and great friend asked me to design a Miamithemed house in Brighton and Emma Wood Interiors was born! Since then the business
has grown organically with many new and repeat clients. As the clients and portfolio have grown, so too has the team and our services. Q What did you want to offer from day one? A A safe pair of hands for clients wishing
to transform their homes. A design practice that could manage the whole project from design to final installation. To offer practical and creative homes with a fun factor. A personal, approachable studio that was happy to work to everyone's budget. Since then we have also gone on to offer garden design, commercial design, full project management and architectural services.
EMMA WOOD
Q What was your very first project? A An impressive Arts and Crafts manor
house in the pretty village of Madehurst, West Sussex. The clients were and still are a dream to work with. I designed the drawing, sitting, dining and games room and all of the bedrooms. It was a dream brief using beautiful classic designs from the likes of Morris & Co.
Q Today, what would you say
you are renowned for?
A Transforming countryside houses, city
apartments and family homes here and abroad. Working with small and large businesses offering a complete interior and branding design service. We have been lucky enough to design local cafes, vineyards, and restaurants and work with renowned brands such as Gatwick Airport and the well-respected RNLI training campus. My clients tell me I have a talent for making their money go further, which in today's climate is essential. I think I've always had a love for reusing and repurposing furniture. As an artist myself, art is often my starting point for a design scheme. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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INTERIORS • PROFILE
open-plan flow. The furniture and decor schemes were intricately planned to create perfect interiors lending themselves to an airy Hamptons-inspired family home. Q Are there plenty of spots in Sussex where EMMA AND HER TEAM
Q Is there a typical Emma Wood style? A I don't believe in a signature house style.
My job is to respond to the architecture and the owners. I do have a preference in my approach. I always start my projects looking at what can be reused, repurposed or donated to worthy charities. The interior industry is going through a major transformation as it considers sustainability. I do love colour, layering and always considering the flow and practicality of a room, never forgetting the "S" word - storage. Mixing old and new items I believe adds instant character to a room, but if you had to press me it would say stripes, stripes, stripes!
Q How do you like to work with clients? A I always offer an initial free design
consultation. This first meeting is a wonderful opportunity to build trust and chemistry. I like to look at the spaces and hear as much as I can about the whole household and how they like to use it, even down to the pets. We recently commissioned bespoke dog beds for one client. Interiors is such a wonderful creative process and I think the client should be as involved as they'd like to be. I often take clients on shopping trips to London. After the initial consultation I then like to take full measurements or work with the architect's plans, review any inspiration the client would like to share and then create the scheme. We present colour, layout, key furniture recommendations, lighting and costings. The next stage involves liaising with specialist trades and suppliers and designing the spaces in more detail. The client then has the choice to take the design and manage it themselves, or we can oversee the production.
FAMILY TOWNHOUSE , HOVE The clients were really fun to work with and gave me complete trust to transform their home over three floors. They also go down in history as the finest request, to source a Star Wars stormtrooper, which now takes pride of place on their first-floor landing. (this is the project pictured in this feature) ARTS & CRAFTS MANOR HOUSE , MADEHURST Nestled in the breathtaking South Downs National Park, you will find this unique Arts & Crafts property. My clients wished to reinstate the traditional charms whilst updating the interiors with a fresh interpretation for the modern day. This project allowed us to use luxurious fabrics, William Morris wallpapers, antique furniture and bespoke joinery throughout the home. FAMILY BEACH HOUSE , EAST PRESTON I completely remodelled this beach house on the beautiful West Sussex coast. The floor plan was completely redesigned to give the house maximum light and an
you enjoy getting away from work?
A Whilst we lived in Amberley we loved
the Pottery and The Black Horse Pub. The East Beach Cafe on the coast is a design icon. Petworth and Arundel are great for exploring antique shops. Ardingly Antique Fair, Bellmans and Tooveys auction houses are particular favourites. The Vinery, near Poling, is a great emporium for furniture shopping. Brewhouse offers great coffee. My husband and I enjoy The Kennels at Goodwood and The Pig at Madehurst. The main reason for moving to this part of Sussex was to enjoy the beach location so morning strolls with my doggies offer a welcome break from my studio.
Q What's on the horizon? A We are just completing a large Regency
villa in Hove complete with incredible high ceilings, beautiful structural details and an outside courtyard that we have designed. The clients have embraced my striking, bold design suggestions including painting the entire hallway and entrance black. We are also working on two riverside apartments in London, a family home in Hove, a new restaurant in Worthing and a beach front property.
emmawoodinteriors.co.uk Photography by Julia Toms Photography
Q Can you describe 2-3 Sussex projects
that are particularly important to you and why do they stand out?
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Hand Crafting beds for over 35 years Established since 1967 Friendly, knowledgeable Service Fast, Free Delivery | Award Winning Independent | Family Business
01273 777888 | 01273 888777 262-266 Portland Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 5QU | info@brighton-beds.co.uk | www.brighton-beds.co.uk
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INTERIORS • TREND
CARRIÈRE FRÈRES Scented Taper Candles, £32 for six carrierefreres.co.uk
ANNABEL JAMES Autumn leaves LED Lights, £39.95, annabeljames.co.uk
ERCOL Marlia Armchair in Red Rust, £1,060 ercol.com
AFTER NOAH Egg Shaped Seagrass Basket With Ochre Stripes, £7 afternoah.com
MONOWARE Autumn Tablescape monoware.com
RED ALERT
DONNA WILSON Bird Figurine, £240 scp.co.uk
OKA
EDITOR’S PICK
Holda Rug in Rust, £2,595 oka.com
Autumnal accessories in leafy shades By P E N D L E H A R T E
LEAF ENVY Windsor Rust Pot, £20 leafenvy.co.uk
ICONIC INTERIORS Lobby Desk Chair in Rich Chestnut, £995 iconicinteriors.com
WILDFLOWER BOTANICALS Autumn Luxury Candle, £22 wildflowerbotanicals.co.uk
LIGNE ROSET Saparella Modular Sofa Corner Unit Rust, £POA miliashop.com
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BEFORE AFTER
REPURPOSING EXISTING BUILDINGS Repurposing is a way of bringing barns and stable buildings back to life for either commercial or residential use. At Sited we review the planning potential of outbuildings as the first step to understanding whether these buildings can be saved and converted for development.
PLEASE CONTACT US
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07 739 514 35 0
steve@sited.land
01892 579 937
sited.land
17/10/2023 13:16
INTERIORS • ACCESSORIES
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C O U N T E R C U L T U R E ESSENTIAL KITCHEN KIT
LINE UP PROCOOK
This handy cast iron griddle has a ridged side for a perfectly seared finish, and a flat side for hot-plate cooking, plus it's big enough for a feast, £39. procook.co.uk
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DESIGN ICON AARKE
Swedish design brand Aarke have launched their first kettle and it's a feat of engineering and design, expertly designed with optimum function as well as being a minimalist, sleek addition to any countertop, £200. aarke.com
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IN THE MIX KITCHENAID
The latest addition to KitchenAid's palette is Agave, a beautiful blend of blue and green with a matte finish. And you can even order one with your initials engraved. kitchenaid.co.uk
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MICROPLANE MICROPLA NE
Microplane®'s new 3-in-1 Ginger Tool takes the hard work out of peeling, grating and slicing fresh ginger. You'll wonder how you managed without it, £19.95. microplane.com
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ALL ROUNDER O U R PL AC E
The iconic Always Pan has got bigger, with a new 32cm version that does everything with its non-toxic, non-stick coating. Saute, fry, boil, steam, bake and serve large meals in this stylish and versatile piece of kit that comes with a clever spatula that rests on the handle, £155. fromourplace.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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A FRIENDLY FAMILY BUSINESS
Conservatory too cold?
LIMITED TIME OFFER
Free velux window or LED lights up to the value of £500 with every order
Changing to a tiled roof will keep your conservatory warm this winter and give more space!
Highest rated conservatory company on Trustpilot 01323 382898 | www.SCRoofs.co.uk
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INTERIORS • STOVES
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F I R E S I D E FIVE OF THE BEST WOOD-BURNING STOVES
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W I N T E R WA R M E R MORSØ
Morsø cast iron stoves can generate plenty of heat even in the tightest space, thanks to its ergonomic design and sleek chimney, plus it has a handle that always stays cold. From £1,999. morsoe.com
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TURN IT UP
H U N T E R S T OV E S
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With easy-to-control settings that can turn up the heat in moments, this efficient stove is suitable for fireplace or freestanding installation and would be a classic addition to any living space. From £1,129. hunterstoves.co.uk
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SMOKE FREE R O WA N DA L E
The ACR Rowandale is a handsome multifuel design with an air wash feature to make sure the glass stays clean. This stove is suitable for wood burning in smokeless zones. From £1,799 in cream. directstoves.com
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EC O R E A DY A R A DA
The Solution 5 (S4) has traditional styling, but is available in a variety of contemporary colourways, including a rich Miami blue. All of Arada's stoves meet the latest eco-ready credentials. From £849. aradastoves.com
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C O SY N I G H T S C H A R N WO O D
Designed and made on the Isle of Wight, the Regency-inspired Cranmore 5 comes in matte black or coloured finishes and has a large picture window for cosy evenings fireside. From £1,864. charnwood.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Showroom: 27 Hartfield Road, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5DY
Call now on:
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SBI Ltd has been providing all of your shelter and shading requirements, since 1998
19/09/2023 10:27
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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP
Striving for
perfection How Burgess Hill’s 3 Step Designs can help you to complete any home project
I
f you are looking for a unique kitchen and bathroom to help create your perfect home, then the 3 Step Designs team can help you every step of the way. With years of experience based from their Burgess Hill showroom, their team are ready to help you. With first class staff trained in design, plumbing and the fitting of kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, heating and electric systems, their team pride themselves in making your home perfect. At 3 Step Designs, they pride themselves in offering good quality, well designed, beautiful yet practical bathrooms and kitchen products. Whether it’s a family kitchen or a digital shower, their team are on hand to help make your home perfect. You can even book in a free home visit to see what they can do for you.
They are a first class home improvement service that works to design you the perfect home to your budget. Their team of highly skilled and friendly designers, plumbers, fitters and electricians strive to deliver you an amazing service. They pride themselves on being the largest independent showroom in Burgess Hill with a huge range of products on display. Why not take a visit to see for yourself?
STEPS TO YOUR DREAM HOME What 3 Step Designs offer • Years of experience in home improvements; • Complete home improvement solutions; • High standard completed fittings; • Competitive prices; • Years of customer satisfaction; • Supply only service for customers who want to install and manage projects themselves; • Kitchens and utility rooms; • Bathrooms/en-suites; • Bedrooms; • Boilers and heating; • One item jobs (such as flooring, and worktops). 3 ST E P D E S I G N S Unit B3 York Road, Burgess Hill Trade Centre, RH15 9AD, 01444 817711 info@3stepdesigns.com 3stepdesigns.com
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A LEVELS IN ONE YEAR A truly unique, accelerated programme: • Live lessons every day, in every subject • Daily tutorials and subject clinics with teachers • Structured self-study materials to keep students on-track • Two residential modules to develop exam and practical skills • Individually-tailored university application support
Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Maths, Further Maths, Physics
For students who wish to change academic direction, need a back-up plan or a resit, want an alternative to a foundation year or to fit their studies around other commitments or... just do things differently!
To find out more go to www.charterhouseonline.co.uk or email admissions@charterhouseonline.co.uk
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E D U C AT I O N
FARMERS OF THE FUTURE SEAS AUTUMN SHOW
The South of England Agricultural Society’s Autumn Show returned with a resounding success in September, treating thousands of visitors to a spectacular celebration of rural life, equestrian excellence, and countryside pursuits. The event put on showcases from local Women’s Institutes and Young Farmers Clubs, and children enjoyed an activity trail, an animal barn, a funfair, and more.
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L o o k i n g
t o
t h e
FUTURE
Taking a closer look at the Sussex school that has launched a professional diploma to better equip children for the real world
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ith the new academic year in full swing, local independent West Sussex prep school, Windlesham House, has kicked off the term with the launch of a professional two-year diploma course that will see its Year 7 and Year 8 pupils complete a comprehensive ‘learning for life’ programme in addition to the core curriculum subjects. The Windlesham House Diploma and Futures Programme is designed to equip children aged between 11 and 13 years with the foundation skills and attributes required to flourish at senior school as well as in their future lives. The course itself is unique to the school and will allow children to develop the qualities and skills that extend beyond traditional academic subjects. Throughout the two-year diploma, pupils will formally study areas that will help to prepare them for the next stage of their education and their life beyond. Covering aspects such as effective communication, working as a team and dealing with conflict resolution,
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there will also be leadership sessions looking at the value and attitudes of caring and inspirational leaders. Pupils will also learn about self-reflection, how to think critically, become positive thinkers and manage things like stress, time management and exam pressures. Ben Evans, headmaster at Windlesham House, explains: “Over the last few years, it’s become evident that there are more forward thinking, alternative and exciting educational routes than the current common entrance syllabus and examinations that many children complete at the end of Year 8. Our new diploma replaces and enhances that route, with a rich, rigorous curriculum and the BEN EVANS
addition of essential social, leadership and team skills that will better equip our young people for the future.” Learning for Life sessions will be taught weekly and will also involve lessons in public speaking, debating and money management. The diploma also includes further non-compulsory elements such as enrichment sessions delivered on a Saturday morning where pupils work on collaborative leadership and entrepreneurial projects as well as outdoor orienteering, local charitable endeavours and first aid training. The Futures Programme element of the diploma also seeks to go beyond simple careers guidance by examining future school choices, giving pupils advice on planning for GCSE options, scholarship support and even looking ahead to university entrance and courses. “We want to widen our pupils’ skill sets and give them more exposure to the real world,” says Ben. “So, it’s important that we focus on building their confidence, whether that’s through developing public speaking skills or giving them regular opportunities to attend exhibitions and presentations.
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The more space they have to explore, innovate and take risks, the more resilient and self-reliant they will become.” With formal examinations, coursework, presentations, reflective journals and practical assessments, pupil progress and achievement will be recognised through a system of continuous assessment. At the end of the two-year course, each pupil will be awarded the Windlesham House Diploma with either a pass, merit or distinction. Windlesham is a leading independent day and boarding prep school for boys and girls aged 4-13 years. Set in 65 acres of beautiful grounds in the West Sussex countryside, the school was established in 1837 as the first ever UK prep school. It was also the first to admit girls in 1967 and is still one of the few prep schools in the UK today not to have a school uniform.
“We want to give pupils more exposure to the real world” While the school exceeds pastorally and academically, Windlesham is passionate about creating a happy, safe and rich learning environment where children have the space and freedom to be children. The school also encourages its children to make a difference in their world and nurtures them to flourish as confident, curious, kind and clever people. windlesham.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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EDUCATION • FOCUS
BEST DAYS
o f y o u r LIFE Chichester Fringe brings music, theatre, comedy and magic back to the heart of the city in November at Chichester College
ALICE APPLEWOOD, PHOTO BY HOLLIE CHAMBERLAIN
“WE ARE CONSTANTLY LOOKING AT WAYS WE CAN CREATE NEW PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES” MARK FLYNN, PHOTO BY CHARLES ALLISON
C
hichester College will be the setting of three special events to mark Chichester Fringe this month. Katie Bennett, Fringe director, says: “With our main 2023 season behind us, we are in the process of planning our 2024 festival. But, with 31 May an age away, we got itchy feet. We simply couldn’t leave you without a single show between now and then could we? “We are constantly looking at ways we can create new performance opportunities for artists all year round and we are so lucky to be collaborating with Chichester College’s theatrical department to bring three shows to their Riverside Theatre in November.” Here, Katie takes Absolutely Sussex through the events:
A DAY TO REMEMBER Thursday 16 November, 2.30pm start
“We loved welcoming singer and storyteller Alice Applewood to Chichester Fringe 2023 earlier in the year, so it was only natural we ask her back to perform her show again for us. A Day to Remember is the story of Doris Day told through song; she’s remembered as the ideal woman of her time, an icon with the perfect smile... Alice takes us behind the smile in this one-woman piece.”
HUGH: THE MUSICAL Thursday 16 November, 7.30pm start
“They had us in stitches at One-o-Four when we welcomed them to Chichester Fringe 2023, it was a no brainer bringing their show back for a second round. You don’t want to miss this light-hearted look at love, friendship and the trials and tribulations of being a
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HUGH THE MUSICAL, PHOTO BY JIM WAKEFIELD
performer… Hugh: The Musical is a fun and original fringe style musical within a musical brought to you by Belle Street Theatre.”
THE CHICHESTER FRINGE CABARET SHOW Friday 17 November, 7pm start
“There was a whole host of talent showcased across our seven venues from the festival this year… here’s a few more you don’t want to miss. MC’d by comedian Natalie Bryce, The Chichester Fringe Cabaret Show will amuse, enthuse and entertain you as we bring you magician Mark Flynn, and guest vocalists Eddie Cole and Olivia Westall.” Tickets for the Chichester Fringe November events are on sale via V2 Tickets. NHS and Concessionary tickets are available for all three events and parking is free. Prices start at £5. Book your tickets and view the full programme at chichesterfringe.co.uk/whats-on
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LAST WORD • EVENT
THE
PHOTO: PHILIP HOLLIS
why everyone is talking about…
THE MUSIC ROOM
MUSIC ROOM at Champs Hill
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PHOTO: PHILIP HOLLIS
A RECORDING SESSION IN ACTION
MARY AND DAVID BOWERMAN
David Bowerman sadly passed away in 2020. Mary Bowerman now guides The Music Room forward, and is at the helm for the 25th anniversary celebrations. She says: “Over the past quarter-century, we have had the privilege of bringing incredible musicians and audiences together in an extraordinary setting. We have witnessed countless transcendent performances and supported the growth of many talented artists. This anniversary is a testament to David, and to the support we have received from our local and artistic community, without whom none of this would be possible.” For more information about The Music Room at Champs Hill and updates on the 25th anniversary celebrations, visit thebct.org.uk
DAME FELICITY LOTT
PHOTO: TREVOR LEIGHTON
T
he Music Room at Champs Hill is thrilled to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2024. This significant milestone marks a quartercentury of bringing the highest-quality music-making to the area, dedication to emerging artists and lesser-known repertoire unlikely to be heard elsewhere. As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, The Music Room will host an array of performances by worldclass musicians. The schedule includes specially curated concerts from Roderick Williams, the Belcea Quartet and Quator Ebene, in the same concert performing Mendelssohn’s stunning Octet. The Music Room was the brainchild of Mary and David Bowerman, who set about building the state-of-the-art concert hall at home in West Sussex in 1999, when David retired from a 40 year career in farming. The mission was, and remains: to give a platform to emerging artists, and promote lesserknown repertoire that deserves to be heard. To that end, they later founded Champs Hill Records, giving artists the opportunity to produce an all-important album early in their careers. The label uses The Music Room as its recording studio to this day. Over the last 25 years, The Music Room has hosted a rich tapestry of performances and recordings, by such acclaimed artists as Simon Keenlyside, Nikolai Demidenko, James Gilchrist, Steven Isserlis, Dame Felicity Lott and Graham Johnson, Chloe Hanslip, Jack Liebeck, Julian Lloyd-Webber, Viktoria Mullova, Richard Rodney-Bennett, Amanda Roocroft, Nicky Spence, and Roderick Williams.
PHOTO: PATRICK ALLEN
The West Sussex music venue and recording studio is all set to celebrate a special anniversary next year
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“This wedding venue is a hidden gem” A&K, married March 2023
Bury Manor Barn
Church Lane, Bury, West Sussex, RH20 1PB 01798 831791 | info@burymanorbarn.com www.burymanorbarn.co.uk Located between Pulborough and Arundel in the South Downs. 1 hr.15 min to London Victoria by train. 40 minutes to Gatwick airport.
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